Did you know that 7.7 million Americans have co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders?
Research has shown time and time again that untreated mental disorders lead to a higher risk of substance abuse. Luckily, addiction treatment is becoming more accessible, and the stigma surrounding rehab centers is beginning to fade.
But how can you determine whether inpatient vs outpatient drug rehab is best for you or your loved one? Is one definitively better than the other?
We’re here to fill you in. Keep reading below to learn everything you need to know about the difference between inpatient vs outpatient rehab.
The Environment’s Sense of Familiarity
The most obvious difference between inpatient vs outpatient rehab is where they’re held. Inpatient rehab takes place in a facility designed for rehab, while outpatient rehab is facilitated from the patient’s home.
For someone who relies on substance abuse to cope with change, an inpatient rehab center may do more harm than good. If the patient feels uncomfortable in an unfamiliar environment, they might not take well to the treatment.
Recovery housing can help you, conversely, if the monotony of a day-to-day routine and environment actually enables your addiction. Many patients need to be removed from the cycle they’re stuck in, and inpatient facilities offer the necessary change of scenery.
The Cost of Treatment
Inpatient rehab treatment is typically more expensive than outpatient rehab treatment. First of all, a patient will be staying inside the facility rather than at home, so lodging costs will account for a part of the cost.
Additionally, inpatient recovery programs can be more lengthy than outpatient programs. This also adds to the price, since they’ll be doing much more interactive treatment with on-site professionals.
The Level of Intensity
Perhaps the most important difference between an outpatient and inpatient rehab center is their level of treatment intensity. Outpatient rehab is for more manageable cases of addiction
A patient in outpatient rehab can live in their own home or a sober home and go about their normal routine of attending school, going to work, etc. It’s a great option for parents who still want to go to their jobs and be there to take care of their kids.
Inpatient rehab centers serve as important facilities for patients who need to detox heavily. These facilities feature round-the-clock medical support, and the treatment in an inpatient center is much more comprehensive and immersive. Inpatient rehab is typically the precursor to outpatient rehab, though each may be used on its own, too.
Comparing Inpatient vs Outpatient Rehab Benefits
The right addiction recovery center can completely turn someone’s life around for the better. With the guide above, you can determine whether inpatient vs outpatient rehab is better for you or your loved one. Both offer benefits, but it’s up to you to decide which is best suited for your needs as you start on the road to recovery.
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